Kobe, Lamar: Ron Should Have Been in All-Defensive Team

Artest’s teammates came to the support of the former NBA Defensive Player of the Year in 2003-04.

Bryant said he was "extremely" surprised when Artest’s name wasn’t announced, and there was "no question" the Lakers starting small forward in his first season with L.A. should have received the defensive honor.

"Total bull—-, plain and simple," Bryant said.

Lamar Odom, who has seen Artest lock up opponents since they played AAU basketball as children in Queens, New York, said Artest should be an automatic honoree when it comes to defense.

"I’m always surprised when he’s not on it," Odom said. "He should be put on it every year. He’s one guy you should kind of stamp down for that. I don’t know who plays better defense, especially at the forward position. … I wish the players picked."